What’s the Difference Between Synthetic and Conventional Oil?

January 31, 2014

Getting an oil change? Your two options are either synthetic or conventional oil. You probably know that synthetic oil is generally more expensive than conventional oil, but do you know why? Read on to find out.

Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil

Synthetic oil is basically conventional oil that’s been modified to improve its characteristics. Some of the advantages synthetic oil has over conventional oil include:

Better Lubrication

Synthetic oils lubricate better and for longer than conventional oils, which decreases the wear on your engine over time. Their increased lubrication performance also means they stick to engine parts better, which protects the engine from a dry start. A dry start happens when you haven’t turned on your car for a long time. During this time, conventional oil would settle to the bottom of the engine, therefore exposing the engine parts at the top and leaving them with no lubrication. Synthetic oil will stick to these parts and keep them lubricated.

Better Performance at High Temperatures

Synthetic oils perform better at high engine temperatures. This resistance to high temperatures means synthetic oils don’t break down as quickly as conventional oils and therefore don’t need to be change as frequently. In addition, synthetic oils don’t leave deposits on the engine as they break down, as conventional oils do.

While synthetic oil has a number of advantages over conventional oil, it’s not a necessity for your engine. Conventional oil lubricates your engine very well. As long as you change your oil at the recommended interval, you should be fine.

If you have any questions about our blog, “New Latch Car Seat Guidelines are Coming” please contact Auto Stop by calling 410-467-7600 or visit AutoStopLTD.com today! You can also follow Auto Stop on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Our mechanics are highly trained and use state-of-the-art Automotive diagnostic equipment to pinpoint your particular issues, repair it, and get you back on the road as quickly as possible. We promise to diagnose your auto repair problems in an honest and professional manner and all of our work is 100% guaranteed!

Auto Stop is your local auto repair shop, serving the Baltimore metro area. We are A+ accredited by the Better Business Bureau. We are also an ARI Fleet repair center for all Fleet Repairs.